Without pomp or ceremony, the Marshall of Sweden is seen entering the court at Coppenhagen, where he is promptly led into chambers with King Erik and his advisors for closed door negotiations.
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A letter arrives in the courts of Tver and Suzdal.
I, Aleksandr, the Fourth of My Name, by the Grace of God and Vyeche named Grand Prince of Pskov, Prince of Novgorod, Prince of Olonets, and a heir of Rurik, hereby call and summon you, my loyal allies, to meet in the citadel of our great city of Pskov to discuss matters of great import to the future of Rus and our great Christian Faith. I beg your presence for the good and betterment of us all, and I beg God for strength so that we may withstand the apostates and usurpers we find ourselves surrounded by. May your journeys be swift.
By his own hand at Pskov,
Aleksandr IV
Grand Prince of Pskov, Prince of Novgorod and of Olonets.
I, Aleksandr, the Fourth of My Name, by the Grace of God and Vyeche named Grand Prince of Pskov, Prince of Novgorod, Prince of Olonets, and a heir of Rurik, hereby call and summon you, my loyal allies, to meet in the citadel of our great city of Pskov to discuss matters of great import to the future of Rus and our great Christian Faith. I beg your presence for the good and betterment of us all, and I beg God for strength so that we may withstand the apostates and usurpers we find ourselves surrounded by. May your journeys be swift.
By his own hand at Pskov,
Aleksandr IV
Grand Prince of Pskov, Prince of Novgorod and of Olonets.
EVENT
With word reaching deep into the realms of the St. Marks alliance and the Islamic church of the unholy alliance with the Infidel there is a reaction
The Populous are shocked. "An alliance with the infidel?! Our god will strike our leaders dead! Heresy!" Open demonstrations are held and religious meetings abound.
(Straight roll for Venice and Mamalukes)(+1 modifier for other alliance members)
1. Rebelion. provinces revolt at home. No armies are built but provincial capital gaurds refuse to follow orders and City officials hold no sway over merchant, Nobles and churchmen alike. (% rounded up and - 2 Tech, -2 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
2. City officials hold little sway and *Shite /Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (- 2 Tech, -2 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
3. *Shite/Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. merchant, Nobles and churchmen alike express displeasure
(- 2 Tech, -1 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
4. *Shite /Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (-1Tech, -1 to morale. for the duration of the Alliance )
5. *Shite /Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (-1 morale for the duration of the Alliance )
6. No effect
(* as applicable)
Venice rolled a 4 . Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (-1Tech, -1 to morale. for the duration of the Alliance )
Mamalukes rolled a 6 No effect
Genoa rolled a 4 (+1 Modifier) = 5 Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (-1 morale for the duration of the Alliance )
Byzantine rolled a 2(+1 Modifier) =3Orthadox Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. merchant, Nobles and churchmen alike express displeasure
(- 2 Tech, -1 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
Modena rolled a 1 (+1 Modifier) = 2 City officials hold little sway and Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (- 2 Tech, -2 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
With word reaching deep into the realms of the St. Marks alliance and the Islamic church of the unholy alliance with the Infidel there is a reaction
The Populous are shocked. "An alliance with the infidel?! Our god will strike our leaders dead! Heresy!" Open demonstrations are held and religious meetings abound.
(Straight roll for Venice and Mamalukes)(+1 modifier for other alliance members)
1. Rebelion. provinces revolt at home. No armies are built but provincial capital gaurds refuse to follow orders and City officials hold no sway over merchant, Nobles and churchmen alike. (% rounded up and - 2 Tech, -2 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
2. City officials hold little sway and *Shite /Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (- 2 Tech, -2 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
3. *Shite/Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. merchant, Nobles and churchmen alike express displeasure
(- 2 Tech, -1 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
4. *Shite /Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (-1Tech, -1 to morale. for the duration of the Alliance )
5. *Shite /Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (-1 morale for the duration of the Alliance )
6. No effect
(* as applicable)
Venice rolled a 4 . Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (-1Tech, -1 to morale. for the duration of the Alliance )
Mamalukes rolled a 6 No effect
Genoa rolled a 4 (+1 Modifier) = 5 Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (-1 morale for the duration of the Alliance )
Byzantine rolled a 2(+1 Modifier) =3Orthadox Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. merchant, Nobles and churchmen alike express displeasure
(- 2 Tech, -1 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
Modena rolled a 1 (+1 Modifier) = 2 City officials hold little sway and Catholic Militants agitatate because of this unholy alliance. (- 2 Tech, -2 to morale for the duration of the Alliance )
(Council of Ten forces Doge Foscari into an emergency meeting, somehow word of its content escapes the secret walls)
"What were you thinking you fool! You know the League is not allowed to have non christian members"
Doge Foscari sat casually with a glass of scottish whiskey in his hand "Your right Andrea, I guess I am so fed up with our christian Pope sitting on his fat arse doing nothing to help us that I just decided the mamlukes are far more friendly"
"How dare you, the Pope is needed in our cause"
"You heard from him lately?"
"Well, No"
"Exactly Titunus" Foscari took a long sip of whiskey "You see gentlemen, you may not like my decision to include the muslim nation into our ranks, however with the Pope ignoring our fight, the entire mongol and muslim world swarming down upon us. I see no choice but to do what must be done"
"Dont think this will last long Francesco, you are not the decider of all things"
"Do what you want to me, so long as I breath the Mamlukes will be my ally and I will crush the Mongols if it is the last thing I do"
"and the others" one of the councilmen asked
"Depends, on the war against the mongols. I promise you if all goes well, the hope of peace and prosperity will be realized, I have given up on the Pope, he is meaningless at this point. The Mamlukes are a source of rich trade, power and similar interests, you will see"
"Maybe we will, maybe we wont, for now you better watch your step Francesco, no more surprises"
"What were you thinking you fool! You know the League is not allowed to have non christian members"
Doge Foscari sat casually with a glass of scottish whiskey in his hand "Your right Andrea, I guess I am so fed up with our christian Pope sitting on his fat arse doing nothing to help us that I just decided the mamlukes are far more friendly"
"How dare you, the Pope is needed in our cause"
"You heard from him lately?"
"Well, No"
"Exactly Titunus" Foscari took a long sip of whiskey "You see gentlemen, you may not like my decision to include the muslim nation into our ranks, however with the Pope ignoring our fight, the entire mongol and muslim world swarming down upon us. I see no choice but to do what must be done"
"Dont think this will last long Francesco, you are not the decider of all things"
"Do what you want to me, so long as I breath the Mamlukes will be my ally and I will crush the Mongols if it is the last thing I do"
"and the others" one of the councilmen asked
"Depends, on the war against the mongols. I promise you if all goes well, the hope of peace and prosperity will be realized, I have given up on the Pope, he is meaningless at this point. The Mamlukes are a source of rich trade, power and similar interests, you will see"
"Maybe we will, maybe we wont, for now you better watch your step Francesco, no more surprises"
The English court is temporarily moved to the Palace at Windsor where St George's Chapel is to be found
Heart of English honour and the order of the Garter. Which was founded in 1348 by Edward III and its ceremonies are held in the chapel. A holy place of great chivalry.
A letter sent to every Catholic potentate in Europe
To whom it may concern,
I have watched with growing concern, as I am sure you have done, the progress of the Mongolian Horde in defiling the realms, lands and finally the very seat of the schismatic Orthodox faith.
Since Europe still reels from the deadly ravages of the Black Death, I do not feel that The One True Faith is yet ready to take up the banner of Christain Crusade and march, as one, upon the Mohammedian threat.
However, after lengthy and considered discussion with various members of the Papal Curia, I have decided to offer the humble temporal resources the Holy See commands in order to support a Papal Charter; a specific Holy Quest to turn the tide of the Mongols before.
The Papal States will be prepared to grant the loan of up to no less than three thousand gold ducats [3 econ] and bestow the Order of St. Peter, with Badge, upon any noble who takes it upon himself to declare a state of war upon the diabolic Khan, raise sufficient armies, conquer the city of Constantinople and deliver it unto the Holy See, from which point it will be administered by the Papal States.
Know that this will be no mean feat and that any monies borrowed from the Holy See in excess of the sum required to bring about the fall of Constantinople may be used as seen fit by the party that does it’s duty to Our Holy Mother Church and rises to the call of the Papal Charter.
If this Charter fails, and the Mohammedian threat spills over into the Catholic world which I so dearly love and strive every day to protect in nomine patri, et fili, et spiritus sancti, then we will have little choice but to pray that we are strong enough after the Great Pestilence to stand and fight in Christ’s name.
With blessings and by his own hand at the Lateran,
His Holiness, Pope Joseph
To whom it may concern,
I have watched with growing concern, as I am sure you have done, the progress of the Mongolian Horde in defiling the realms, lands and finally the very seat of the schismatic Orthodox faith.
Since Europe still reels from the deadly ravages of the Black Death, I do not feel that The One True Faith is yet ready to take up the banner of Christain Crusade and march, as one, upon the Mohammedian threat.
However, after lengthy and considered discussion with various members of the Papal Curia, I have decided to offer the humble temporal resources the Holy See commands in order to support a Papal Charter; a specific Holy Quest to turn the tide of the Mongols before.
The Papal States will be prepared to grant the loan of up to no less than three thousand gold ducats [3 econ] and bestow the Order of St. Peter, with Badge, upon any noble who takes it upon himself to declare a state of war upon the diabolic Khan, raise sufficient armies, conquer the city of Constantinople and deliver it unto the Holy See, from which point it will be administered by the Papal States.
Know that this will be no mean feat and that any monies borrowed from the Holy See in excess of the sum required to bring about the fall of Constantinople may be used as seen fit by the party that does it’s duty to Our Holy Mother Church and rises to the call of the Papal Charter.
If this Charter fails, and the Mohammedian threat spills over into the Catholic world which I so dearly love and strive every day to protect in nomine patri, et fili, et spiritus sancti, then we will have little choice but to pray that we are strong enough after the Great Pestilence to stand and fight in Christ’s name.
With blessings and by his own hand at the Lateran,
His Holiness, Pope Joseph
Dawn slowly turned into dusk in the castle at Tours. The Duke of Provence, Louis III, the Duke of Bourbonnais, Jean I, the Regent of Auvergne, Alfred, the Count of Champagne, Francis, and the Constable and General of France, Richemont sat in the dark cellar amidst the wine. Alfred unfolded the conspiracy to the others.
"We cannot allow this Duke of Orleans to become the King! He has no right to claim the throne, and he has no right to sign this treaty. We shall gather all of our supporters, and oust the Duke. Then, we shall go to Rome and sign a treaty that we propose!"
Louis III grinned and his lip curled into a sneer.
"If we raise the levy, we can rebuild our army and strike the English back. I have some assassins that can deal with Charles I. It would be a lot easier if Provence were given its Kingship."
Jean I growled at Louis.
"We have already been over this before. You almost brought all of Anjou against France. If it would not have been for the promise of Genovese intervention, I am sure the Aragonese would have pressed into France. You will get your reward, but you will have to do far better to get a kingdom of your own."
"It is not my fault that Charles VII was a fool. If he would have allowed me my kingdom, I would have been far stronger, and we could have repulsed the English by now."
Francis shook his head in disbelief.
"How can becoming a kingdom help you? You may have better respect, but a piece of land can only raise so many soldiers, so much taxes. It doesn't matter if it is a kingdom or a simple Manor. Now, let us return to the subject at hand. I will not allow my County to be handed to the English by some powerhungry idiot! Louis, send your assassins to Rome. The rest of us shall raise our levies and march against the English. That is all we need to do. Victory is so close.."
"Yet so far away." Richemont cut in. "You are all a bunch of conspirators and traitors. Even if we could raise every available soldier, we would not have the equipment, the money, or the food to supply them with. I have heard enough here to convict every one of you of treason. Guards, take them away."
From behinds the wine barrels, armed guards bearing the colors of the Royal Army appeared. They quickly bound the nobles, ending their cries of protest.
"Lock the cellar doors and leave them here. Send word to the King that the deed is done. Now, I have other work to do."
"We cannot allow this Duke of Orleans to become the King! He has no right to claim the throne, and he has no right to sign this treaty. We shall gather all of our supporters, and oust the Duke. Then, we shall go to Rome and sign a treaty that we propose!"
Louis III grinned and his lip curled into a sneer.
"If we raise the levy, we can rebuild our army and strike the English back. I have some assassins that can deal with Charles I. It would be a lot easier if Provence were given its Kingship."
Jean I growled at Louis.
"We have already been over this before. You almost brought all of Anjou against France. If it would not have been for the promise of Genovese intervention, I am sure the Aragonese would have pressed into France. You will get your reward, but you will have to do far better to get a kingdom of your own."
"It is not my fault that Charles VII was a fool. If he would have allowed me my kingdom, I would have been far stronger, and we could have repulsed the English by now."
Francis shook his head in disbelief.
"How can becoming a kingdom help you? You may have better respect, but a piece of land can only raise so many soldiers, so much taxes. It doesn't matter if it is a kingdom or a simple Manor. Now, let us return to the subject at hand. I will not allow my County to be handed to the English by some powerhungry idiot! Louis, send your assassins to Rome. The rest of us shall raise our levies and march against the English. That is all we need to do. Victory is so close.."
"Yet so far away." Richemont cut in. "You are all a bunch of conspirators and traitors. Even if we could raise every available soldier, we would not have the equipment, the money, or the food to supply them with. I have heard enough here to convict every one of you of treason. Guards, take them away."
From behinds the wine barrels, armed guards bearing the colors of the Royal Army appeared. They quickly bound the nobles, ending their cries of protest.
"Lock the cellar doors and leave them here. Send word to the King that the deed is done. Now, I have other work to do."
Meanwhile, back at Sagres to the far tip of Algarve Prince Henrique the Navigator, Duke of Sagres, and Govenor of Ordem de Christo walks into his school of ambitious sailors and cartographers.
Now we shall discuss our routes of passage through the Cape once more. It is said by the Castillians that this is impassible, however, they are idiots of the highest caliber as we all know it. <he pauses for a moment as all the class chuckles along with him>
Now, we have gotten as far as that Cape but is anyone brave enough to go past such? Will these silly rumors and legends that have no truth keep us from reaching Prestor John and uniting to destroy the Muslims in Africa? Do you not wish to spread the word of God? Now after you answer these questions I shall conduct navigational business with you all. <he pauses to let them think>
Now then, shall we move along?Good. Let us go to the shipyard then shall we? <they walk outside to the shipyard at Sagres> Now, we shall learn about Caravels and how we manange them first, then we shall learn how to navigate them around the Cape, next we map the areas for future voyages, and finally we set sail for God!
Prince Henrique continues his lectures for hours and hours...
Prince Henrique finishes his rally and sends his copies to his fastest messengers to rally it all across Europe.
For God!
I Prince Henrique the son of King D. João of Portugal, am calling all persons interested in fame, fortune, piety, adventure, and education to come to my school here in Sagres, Portugal. For we shall learn the God given skills of navigation, trade, and cartography and embark on a journey for Prestor John. To spread the word of God, and to seek the riches of Africa and Asia. For God and glory. For fame and fortune. All newcommers gain a chicken and some cow beef upon they're arrival. Please, come and embark on this fabulous journey for God and Christ and forever gain the Pope's favor!
(OOC-these rallies were sent to the following states: Castille-Leon, Aragon, France, Genoa, Venice, Naples, Tuscany, Papal States, Modena, Siena, England, and Burgundy)
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(From merchants at the docks, to the piazzas, to the nobles and beyond, the rumor spreads)
Lady Claudia has left Venice in tears and is on a ship back to Genoa. Doge Foscari has not been heard from regarding the quick departure of the lady.
Lady Claudia has left Venice in tears and is on a ship back to Genoa. Doge Foscari has not been heard from regarding the quick departure of the lady.
(In Genoa with Doge John II)
John stood up in shock when he saw his sister Claudia burst through the doors of his chambers. Her face was smeared with tears and her hair tangled after days of travel by water. She was extremely upset and ran to John and fell at his feet, her grief exploded as she clung to his legs.
“My God Claudia, wha?? What are you doing here, what has happened to you?” John leaned down to touch her head and comfort her, he snapped his fingers at the servants to leave him.
“John they have killed him, they have murdered him in cold blood *sob*”
John turned his eyes to the far wall where the flag of St Mark hung beside his own nations. His thoughts raced from confusion to fear and back to confusion.
“Who has killed him Claudia, tell me?”
“The council no longer agreed with Francesco, they said he was leading the League into ruin so when he declared war on the Turks *sob* oh God they took him away from me, now he is gone, what will I do now John, *sob*sob*”
John could only stand in shock as he stood up while Claudia clung to him, he now had to wait and see who would replace his friend and ally as Doge of Venice. What would come of the alliance and the war against the Muslims.
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(Maggior Consiglio in Venice)
“Silence, Silence” Giovanni Gritti of the council of Ten demanded the senators be silent while his colleague explained the situation.
Donatello Priuli also of the council of ten stood and spoke “Gentlemen as you have by now heard, Doge Francesco Foscari has been found dead. His death is being investigated as we speak and we will come to a conclusion of this matter.” His voice was without emotion, his face showed little remorse as he continued “Venice cannot be without an able leader and so we will commence to vote for a new Doge immediately. The League of St Mark is stronger than ever, she will now move to repair the damaged relations she has with Rome and other Christians who are offended by recent events and decisions.” He pursed his lips and gave a cold look into the audience of senators “Do not be foolish to doubt the power of this council to lead Venice, we have done our part to bring sanity back into the seat of power, the goals of Venice shall not be compromised so mind your curiosity and tend to your vote, that is all”
The people of Venice halted day’s activities to mourn the loss of their Doge, the enthusiasm that they once had with Francesco’s promises of glory and prosperity now led to anxiety and fear for what would follow without its leader. Now they waited anxiously for the vote to give them a new hope for the future.
John stood up in shock when he saw his sister Claudia burst through the doors of his chambers. Her face was smeared with tears and her hair tangled after days of travel by water. She was extremely upset and ran to John and fell at his feet, her grief exploded as she clung to his legs.
“My God Claudia, wha?? What are you doing here, what has happened to you?” John leaned down to touch her head and comfort her, he snapped his fingers at the servants to leave him.
“John they have killed him, they have murdered him in cold blood *sob*”
John turned his eyes to the far wall where the flag of St Mark hung beside his own nations. His thoughts raced from confusion to fear and back to confusion.
“Who has killed him Claudia, tell me?”
“The council no longer agreed with Francesco, they said he was leading the League into ruin so when he declared war on the Turks *sob* oh God they took him away from me, now he is gone, what will I do now John, *sob*sob*”
John could only stand in shock as he stood up while Claudia clung to him, he now had to wait and see who would replace his friend and ally as Doge of Venice. What would come of the alliance and the war against the Muslims.
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(Maggior Consiglio in Venice)
“Silence, Silence” Giovanni Gritti of the council of Ten demanded the senators be silent while his colleague explained the situation.
Donatello Priuli also of the council of ten stood and spoke “Gentlemen as you have by now heard, Doge Francesco Foscari has been found dead. His death is being investigated as we speak and we will come to a conclusion of this matter.” His voice was without emotion, his face showed little remorse as he continued “Venice cannot be without an able leader and so we will commence to vote for a new Doge immediately. The League of St Mark is stronger than ever, she will now move to repair the damaged relations she has with Rome and other Christians who are offended by recent events and decisions.” He pursed his lips and gave a cold look into the audience of senators “Do not be foolish to doubt the power of this council to lead Venice, we have done our part to bring sanity back into the seat of power, the goals of Venice shall not be compromised so mind your curiosity and tend to your vote, that is all”
The people of Venice halted day’s activities to mourn the loss of their Doge, the enthusiasm that they once had with Francesco’s promises of glory and prosperity now led to anxiety and fear for what would follow without its leader. Now they waited anxiously for the vote to give them a new hope for the future.
News reaches the docks fast. That Doge John II has withdrawn from the Legue of St. Mark.
The Doge views the League as useless without a leader, and in the current crisis it is not possible to exist in this state. Genoa only remains at war with the Timiruds, and hopefully this war will come to an end.
However, Genoa will be searching to create a new alliance, or join an existing one.
The Doge views the League as useless without a leader, and in the current crisis it is not possible to exist in this state. Genoa only remains at war with the Timiruds, and hopefully this war will come to an end.
However, Genoa will be searching to create a new alliance, or join an existing one.
A letter arrives from Burgundy:
"Noble Regent of France,
it is with great sadness that I have said goodbye to Albert Von Habsburg this morning. He will be arriving in Nivernais shortly, and for you to be judged. He remains a most bitter person, but I plea that you will not be to harsh to him. Never forget that God asks us to forgive those who have hurt us.
There is no use of repaying us for taking care of Albert. The money will be needed to build back France for a bright future.
Sincerly yours, in God,
Marie de Berry, duchesse de Bourgogne."
"Noble Regent of France,
it is with great sadness that I have said goodbye to Albert Von Habsburg this morning. He will be arriving in Nivernais shortly, and for you to be judged. He remains a most bitter person, but I plea that you will not be to harsh to him. Never forget that God asks us to forgive those who have hurt us.
There is no use of repaying us for taking care of Albert. The money will be needed to build back France for a bright future.
Sincerly yours, in God,
Marie de Berry, duchesse de Bourgogne."
Word of the Hessen ambassador's arrest reaches the capital, and spreads quickly. Nobles and peasants alike are stunned.
Rumors spread quickly across the German hills...
"The Emperor has betrayed us!"
"He insults our land! No respect for the men who've died serving him."
"How can our neighbors support these actions? He is not our real regent!"
The Hessen borders close quickly.
Inside the Court, Duke Philipp paces in front of his advisors.
We upheld our part of the bargain. If anything, we shall retain our honor. Our Emperor is now a tyrant, but we will not aid him in his political conquest.
Rumors spread quickly across the German hills...
"The Emperor has betrayed us!"
"He insults our land! No respect for the men who've died serving him."
"How can our neighbors support these actions? He is not our real regent!"
The Hessen borders close quickly.
Inside the Court, Duke Philipp paces in front of his advisors.
We upheld our part of the bargain. If anything, we shall retain our honor. Our Emperor is now a tyrant, but we will not aid him in his political conquest.
Murad is perched on his divan, his viziers, advisors, and generals arraigned about him. Although he almost always attends the meetings of his council of state, he usually allows the Grand Vizier to run the meeting. With Yunus Emre still in Constantinople for the moment, he is forced to deal with that tedious duty.
Perhaps his unfamiliarity with the role of chair is why he was taken aback when Suleiman challenged him so brazenly.
"Venice declares war, and you just sit there hemming and hawing like a woman choosing a scarf?"
Murad was about to remind him of his place, when he noticed many of the Anatolian beys nodding in agreement. When did his support at the Porte grow so strong? he wondered.
"We have received no word from Venice, one way or the other, about war. I will not act until I am sure when end of the sword I am grasping."
Suleiman sneered. "Words, words, more words! While you wait for directions from Italy, Venetian merchants continue to get rich off of the sweat of our farmers and craftsmen!"
Murad's face darkened. "That's enough, Suleiman! The privileges of the Venetians have already been suspended ..." He paused, as he realized a more dramatic gesture was need. " ... but effective immediately, the Grand Vizier will confiscate the goods and wealth of every Venetian in the Ottoman Empire. Their trade will be handed over to my loyal subjects. Perhaps that will let you sleep more easily on your way back to Ankara."
The dismissal was unmistakeable. Suleiman wavered, uncertain of his support, and the moment passed. He bowed his head. "As you command, Great Sultan."
**************************************************
Over the course of the next several weeks, all Venetians slower than the agents of the Sublime Porte were taken into custody, their houses appropriated, and their wealth confiscated. They were escorted to the Serbian border and told that Serbia, a Venetian vassal, would care for them. It was not clear to anyone involved if the Serbians would lift a finger.
Perhaps his unfamiliarity with the role of chair is why he was taken aback when Suleiman challenged him so brazenly.
"Venice declares war, and you just sit there hemming and hawing like a woman choosing a scarf?"
Murad was about to remind him of his place, when he noticed many of the Anatolian beys nodding in agreement. When did his support at the Porte grow so strong? he wondered.
"We have received no word from Venice, one way or the other, about war. I will not act until I am sure when end of the sword I am grasping."
Suleiman sneered. "Words, words, more words! While you wait for directions from Italy, Venetian merchants continue to get rich off of the sweat of our farmers and craftsmen!"
Murad's face darkened. "That's enough, Suleiman! The privileges of the Venetians have already been suspended ..." He paused, as he realized a more dramatic gesture was need. " ... but effective immediately, the Grand Vizier will confiscate the goods and wealth of every Venetian in the Ottoman Empire. Their trade will be handed over to my loyal subjects. Perhaps that will let you sleep more easily on your way back to Ankara."
The dismissal was unmistakeable. Suleiman wavered, uncertain of his support, and the moment passed. He bowed his head. "As you command, Great Sultan."
**************************************************
Over the course of the next several weeks, all Venetians slower than the agents of the Sublime Porte were taken into custody, their houses appropriated, and their wealth confiscated. They were escorted to the Serbian border and told that Serbia, a Venetian vassal, would care for them. It was not clear to anyone involved if the Serbians would lift a finger.
In a carriage riding through Northern Italy is Victor, his wife, his daughter and his second eldest son, the eldest and youngest of his children being in Bremen. Alongside the carriage are armed men on horseback and an additional carriage behind. Suddenly a messanger on horseback rides up to the small convoy, handing a message to one of the armed men. After he hands it to his superior, the man knocks on the carriage door. "A message for you, sire," he states, handing the message through the opening in the side of the carriage.
After reading it, Victor places it down on his lap, the written portion of the three-page note facing downward. "What is it, Victor?" inquires his wife.
"Imperial matters," replies Victor, a look of anger on his face. For the rest of the ride to Rome he stares at the scenery of Italy, away from his family.
After reading it, Victor places it down on his lap, the written portion of the three-page note facing downward. "What is it, Victor?" inquires his wife.
"Imperial matters," replies Victor, a look of anger on his face. For the rest of the ride to Rome he stares at the scenery of Italy, away from his family.
After days and days of private conversations, duchess Elisabeth was said to never have been so happy in her live. And the maids and servants noted that whenever she was with one man, she seemed to be even happier.
Finally, she summonds the noblemen to the halls of her court, and talks to them.
"Noble men, all of you a men of honour and indeed outstanding. But I have made my choice, after hard thinking.
Prince Henry Stuart, come to my side. The Scottish nation is and always was a proud one, and I think that both our nations will profit enourmous from this marriage, and we share a long history.
To you others, I thank you for comming here and bearing many hardships to get here. Make your ways home, and bring with you the thankfulness of the duchess of Luxembourg, and the friendship of my nation."
Finally, she summonds the noblemen to the halls of her court, and talks to them.
"Noble men, all of you a men of honour and indeed outstanding. But I have made my choice, after hard thinking.
Prince Henry Stuart, come to my side. The Scottish nation is and always was a proud one, and I think that both our nations will profit enourmous from this marriage, and we share a long history.
To you others, I thank you for comming here and bearing many hardships to get here. Make your ways home, and bring with you the thankfulness of the duchess of Luxembourg, and the friendship of my nation."
Albert was taken from Nivernais to the French city of Tours, where the trials would take place. Already, a few French nobles had been tried and some even sentenced to death. Constable Richemont overlooked the trials with a ruthlessness equaling Charles'. AS Albert was brought in, Richemont's attitude changed. Here before him was a man accused of many petty crimes. Richemont had killed many a person and was hailed a hero by the French people and many others, Albert kills but one and now stands on trial. This would be interesting indeed.
"Stand forward and declare your name and such."
Albert did so, and Richemont continued.
"You stand on trial today for the murder of a maiden, a peasant. Supposedly, she was blessed by God, and should she have lived, she would have brought victory to France. What have you to say?"
Albert merely responded with his normal answer, refusing to admit that he committed the crime. Richemont smiled at the man's stubborness.
"Well, I for one, believe you. My armies waited for the reinforcements that you promised, and I have spoken with the French who went to the Diet and heard how you supported the French against the English. I know that the armies of the Empire would have been pounding at the English doors should it not have been for that papal edict, and I will not hold it against you.
Now, the only thing you stand on trial here today is for the murder of a maiden. I have seen worse. When the Federation soldies marched through, their sieges alone caused many a death. Not a one of them stands on trial and nor shall they. Many a peasant is killed throughout life and the only thing that bother me about it is one less person to pay taxes. This maiden may have rallyied many soldiers, but I personnally believe she was a heretic. She wore the clothes of a man, and she fought on the battlefields like a man. She rallyed the soldiers of France with her witchcraft and Charles VII listened to her. He was just as foolish, which is why he is no longer on the throne.
Let me ask you a question. What would happen to France's image if a mongol were to come to France and rally our armies? We may win the war, but lose our souls. Is that what we want to do?"
Albert shook his head no and Richemont continued.
"If this maiden was blessed by God, she would not have died. The only thing you are guilty of, if you even had a hand in her death, was to save France from the fires of hell. God knew that she worshipped the devil and had her killed. Nearly all of France knows this, save for the few loyal supporters of the witch, who now hide in their caves. They supported her and the moment she died, they fled like cowards. The reason, she had them under her spell and they lost all courage after she was gone, cause the spell was gone. So, even if you did kill her, I can find nothing in the legal system to condemn you of."
Albert looks at Richemont with wonder, while Richemont plucks at his small goatee.
"So, I hereby declare you guilty for wasting my time. This trial was unneeded. Your presence in France is unneeded. As to why the Catholic world sent you here is unknown to me. So, you are free."
Richemont rose and exited the courtroom. Albert stood stunned for a moment as the guards released him from his chains. An escort arrived to return him to Austria.
"Stand forward and declare your name and such."
Albert did so, and Richemont continued.
"You stand on trial today for the murder of a maiden, a peasant. Supposedly, she was blessed by God, and should she have lived, she would have brought victory to France. What have you to say?"
Albert merely responded with his normal answer, refusing to admit that he committed the crime. Richemont smiled at the man's stubborness.
"Well, I for one, believe you. My armies waited for the reinforcements that you promised, and I have spoken with the French who went to the Diet and heard how you supported the French against the English. I know that the armies of the Empire would have been pounding at the English doors should it not have been for that papal edict, and I will not hold it against you.
Now, the only thing you stand on trial here today is for the murder of a maiden. I have seen worse. When the Federation soldies marched through, their sieges alone caused many a death. Not a one of them stands on trial and nor shall they. Many a peasant is killed throughout life and the only thing that bother me about it is one less person to pay taxes. This maiden may have rallyied many soldiers, but I personnally believe she was a heretic. She wore the clothes of a man, and she fought on the battlefields like a man. She rallyed the soldiers of France with her witchcraft and Charles VII listened to her. He was just as foolish, which is why he is no longer on the throne.
Let me ask you a question. What would happen to France's image if a mongol were to come to France and rally our armies? We may win the war, but lose our souls. Is that what we want to do?"
Albert shook his head no and Richemont continued.
"If this maiden was blessed by God, she would not have died. The only thing you are guilty of, if you even had a hand in her death, was to save France from the fires of hell. God knew that she worshipped the devil and had her killed. Nearly all of France knows this, save for the few loyal supporters of the witch, who now hide in their caves. They supported her and the moment she died, they fled like cowards. The reason, she had them under her spell and they lost all courage after she was gone, cause the spell was gone. So, even if you did kill her, I can find nothing in the legal system to condemn you of."
Albert looks at Richemont with wonder, while Richemont plucks at his small goatee.
"So, I hereby declare you guilty for wasting my time. This trial was unneeded. Your presence in France is unneeded. As to why the Catholic world sent you here is unknown to me. So, you are free."
Richemont rose and exited the courtroom. Albert stood stunned for a moment as the guards released him from his chains. An escort arrived to return him to Austria.
A New Ruler of Bohemia is Proclaimed!
The Austrian troops are occupying Bohemia. They have banned the Congress of the Nobles at Karlstein from electing a new King, after the death of Karol V. at the hand of the heretic Hussites. However, even though Karlstein is under close surveillance the nobles meet in Pilsen.
Pilsen, a Catholic stronghold in Southern Bohemia is not as heavily manned by the Habsburg. The great fair of St. Stanislav explains the arrival of multiple Bohemian noblemen and does not arouse the suspision of the Habsburg garrison. However most of them are drinking the famous beer in the taverns, anyway. Along with peasants coming to sell their wares at the fair.
The Noblemen meet in the Town House. Maybe three or four of them are missing. Jailed by the Austrians. The others look upon each other with sadness in their eyes. Bohemia, once a prime principality and the only kingdom in the empire since 1158, now more or less an Austrian province.
Yet there are duties to be performed, no matter what the Habsburg sanction against it.
The premier Nobleman at the Congrees, Jan Rohac z Dube:
"We, the Nobles of the ancient and proud Kingdom of Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia and acting according to the ancient custom have gathered here to proclaim a new heir to the throne of St. Vaclav.
In the event of death of the King of Bohemia without a direct heir, the noblemen of the country gather to elect a new King to rule over our land.
We have considered many a magnificent candidate, but the land of the Bohemians yearns for the years past. To return to the happy times of Vaclav IV. To end the dark ages of herecy and once again engage in peaceful coexistence with our neighbours.
Therefor, as Vaclav IV. was the King of Bohemia from the House of Luxemburg and who have ruled Bohemia since 1310, we the noblemen of Bohemia acting out our sacred and honorable duty have decided to elect the infant nephew of Elizabeth of Luxemburg, Ladislav as the rightful ruler of the Kingdom of Bohemia under the name of Ladislav the Second.
May God be Kind on our new King"
"Long Live the King!" resonates the hall for a good half-an-hour, the voices of the Nobles growing harsh towards the end. They have fulfilled their sacred obligation, they have elected an heir to the proud throne of St. Vaclav. The ancient custom performed, the celebration may commence.
The windows of Pilsen are lit up until the morning and still the merriment continues. Some celebrate only the fair or maybe a good deal they made. However, in the Town Hall of Pilsen, the most dignified Noblemen of Bohemia celebrate a new and rightful ruler for a troubled land!
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The image above is of the actual crown of St.Vaclav worn by Bohemian Kings
The Austrian troops are occupying Bohemia. They have banned the Congress of the Nobles at Karlstein from electing a new King, after the death of Karol V. at the hand of the heretic Hussites. However, even though Karlstein is under close surveillance the nobles meet in Pilsen.
Pilsen, a Catholic stronghold in Southern Bohemia is not as heavily manned by the Habsburg. The great fair of St. Stanislav explains the arrival of multiple Bohemian noblemen and does not arouse the suspision of the Habsburg garrison. However most of them are drinking the famous beer in the taverns, anyway. Along with peasants coming to sell their wares at the fair.
The Noblemen meet in the Town House. Maybe three or four of them are missing. Jailed by the Austrians. The others look upon each other with sadness in their eyes. Bohemia, once a prime principality and the only kingdom in the empire since 1158, now more or less an Austrian province.
Yet there are duties to be performed, no matter what the Habsburg sanction against it.
The premier Nobleman at the Congrees, Jan Rohac z Dube:
"We, the Nobles of the ancient and proud Kingdom of Bohemia, Moravia and Silesia and acting according to the ancient custom have gathered here to proclaim a new heir to the throne of St. Vaclav.
In the event of death of the King of Bohemia without a direct heir, the noblemen of the country gather to elect a new King to rule over our land.
We have considered many a magnificent candidate, but the land of the Bohemians yearns for the years past. To return to the happy times of Vaclav IV. To end the dark ages of herecy and once again engage in peaceful coexistence with our neighbours.
Therefor, as Vaclav IV. was the King of Bohemia from the House of Luxemburg and who have ruled Bohemia since 1310, we the noblemen of Bohemia acting out our sacred and honorable duty have decided to elect the infant nephew of Elizabeth of Luxemburg, Ladislav as the rightful ruler of the Kingdom of Bohemia under the name of Ladislav the Second.
May God be Kind on our new King"
"Long Live the King!" resonates the hall for a good half-an-hour, the voices of the Nobles growing harsh towards the end. They have fulfilled their sacred obligation, they have elected an heir to the proud throne of St. Vaclav. The ancient custom performed, the celebration may commence.
The windows of Pilsen are lit up until the morning and still the merriment continues. Some celebrate only the fair or maybe a good deal they made. However, in the Town Hall of Pilsen, the most dignified Noblemen of Bohemia celebrate a new and rightful ruler for a troubled land!
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The image above is of the actual crown of St.Vaclav worn by Bohemian Kings
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